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Fleet technology has made leaps and bounds in recent years, and government fleets across the nation are starting to integrate new technologies into their fleet management strategies. While most start with traditional telematics, the next logical step for many is the integration of video telematics into their technology stack.
For years video fleet technology was limited to a single forward-facing camera that only offered limited information, and had to be activated manually. Today’s systems can give fleet managers a full 360-degree view of each asset and integrated accelerometers trigger cameras automatically when a dramatic change in speed or direction is noticed.
While on-road safety might be the most glaring benefit, it is just the tip of the iceberg for fleets that invest in video telematics.
4 Benefits Of Video Telematics
Like most telematic devices, onboard video cameras generate actionable data that can be in turn used to improve fleet performance in a variety of ways. These are four ways video can have an immediate impact on your fleet.
Reduce Fraudulent Claims
When an accident occurs, fingerpointing usually follows closely behind, but the video doesn’t lie. Harsh braking triggers modern dash cameras to instantly start recording, creating a reliable source of evidence that can quickly absolve drivers of any wrongdoing. All video is fed back into the fleet management system of your choice and stored for easy access should an incident occur.
Reduce Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is on the rise, and government fleets aren’t immune. We know that there is value in technology, but checking a phone notification, texting while driving, or even talking on a cell phone while driving can have disastrous consequences. Driver-facing video telematics is powered by AI to monitor and report unsafe driving behaviors.
Cut Insurance Costs
Insurance might not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about video telematics, but insurance providers are taking notice. We have seen fleets that invest in video technology cut their insurance premiums by as much as 30% by simply installing devices in their fleet.
Theft Prevention
Did you know that video telematics can even prevent theft? Emerging technology powered by AI can use facial recognition to provide, or restrict access, to each vehicle in your fleet. For fleets that have a motor pool, this can be a great way to more effectively manage assets and ensure that vehicles are not taken offsite by unauthorized personnel.
Things To Consider When Implementing Video Telematics
Whether video telematics is on your fleet management roadmap, or you are looking to improve your current solution, doing your homework is essential. As you jump into the conversation, consider the following.
Integration Capability
Although the number of video telematics tools continues to grow, it is important to note that not all platforms seamlessly integrate with every backend telematics platform. Look for a provider that can easily integrate so that everything can be managed from a single dashboard, like that found within MyGeotab. Instead of jumping between systems to monitor your fleet, everything is consolidated streamlining the entire process.
Installation Process
Whether you are managing a fleet of 5 or 500, the installation process is something that has to be considered. At Argos, we offer expert installation to make the process easier for fleet managers, and providers like SmartWitness have modular solutions that can be easily upgraded over time. As you research various platforms, get detailed information on what the implementation process looks like to avoid any hiccups down the road.
Driver Onboarding
In our experience, driver onboarding can be looked at through two lenses. First and foremost, is getting drivers on board with the idea of having video monitoring within each vehicle. For some fleets, this could be a major hurdle. Many of our partners initially choose external-facing technology to help drivers acclimate to the technology. Over time, driver-facing options can be added for a well-rounded solution.
Once drivers have overcome any hesitation, find out if training will be needed. Some camera systems still require manual operation, and you don’t want to be halfway through an implementation before learning that a solution doesn’t provide triggered events.
Video Telematics & Argos
When it comes to video telematics, we want you to have the information you need to make the best decision for your fleet. As new options continuously enter the marketplace, working with a local provider that can help you navigate the process and vet solutions can streamline the entire process of adding or upgrading fleet technology.
At Argos, our goal is to make the process as easy as possible for our partners. As an authorized Geotab reseller, we partner with the leading video telematics platforms and work to ensure you have the best options available. To learn more about our video telematics partners, connect for a consultation or demo.
